Kundika

Ancient Indian water vessel found in both Hindu and Buddhist mythology. It enters China as an attribute to the Boddisattva Avalokitesvara which eventually is transformed into the female Guanyin, retaining the kundika as a sympol of purification and dispenser of compassion. The Kundika in itself is a pouring vessel with a spout on the side but without a handle. While pouring, the pot is held around its neck. Unlike the similar Kendi it is filled through the wide spout at the side while the pouring is done through the neck. The kundika is known in China since at least the Tang dynasty and was an undispensible item for the Buddhist pilgrim together with his alms bowl and staff.